Leader’s Minutes

The presentation of a good Scoutmaster’s Minute (Leader’s Minute) can contribute nicely to a troop meeting’s success. Occurring right before the closing, what’s communicated are thoughts the Scouts can take home with them. In a Scout-run troop, the Scoutmaster’s Minute is the only occasion when the Scoutmaster is right up front and addresses the whole troop. Therefore, it’s an ideal opportunity to convey a special message of inspiration. Many of the Scoutmaster’s Minutes listed in this section are parables—short stories about everyday people and occurrences that illustrate a moral attitude and positive thinking.

EFFECTIVE SCOUTMASTER’S MINUTES SHOULD BE:

Well-rehearsed

Personalized and delivered with good eye contact and expression

To the point, presenting a single, clear lesson

Well-paced, not overly-long and drawn out

Drawn upon events or circumstances that Scout-age boys can relate to

Applicable for all of us (using “we” instead of “you” while addressing the Scouts)

and contain these four key elements which should come through in the presentation:

The many examples listed in this section can be adapted and used as a point of reference to inspire Scouts, open their eyes, and/or get them thinking. At the same time, the best Scoutmaster’s minutes are those drawn from real life experiences that can be delivered in a way that is genuine and natural. Worthwhile stories and accounts with a positive message can be shared most effectively when they have a personal connection and appeal to the presenter.